...Dreading the thought of wearing braces since it will be like a 1 year sexual death sentence...
This isn't necessarily true. But regarding appearance, I'd think the beginning of braces up until about a month after surgery will be the most awkward phase. After that, if surgery went as expected and your jaws are in aesthetic form, you'll be fine. I'd take braces and post-op jaws over no braces with pre-op jaws.
Regarding your original question, I too suggest your first move is to pick a surgeon. He or she will direct you to an appropriate ortho.